Four Steps to a Windowsill Herb Garden

Posted: October 28, 2016

When it comes to growing an herb garden at home, it doesn’t take a green thumb to reap a bountiful harvest. From basil to oregano, one of the easiest ways to get your herb garden off the ground is by planting them in a planter box or in pots on your windowsill! This option not only brings the scents of fresh herbs into your home, but also adds curbside appeal and comes with easy maintenance. Plus, you don’t need a yard, garden bed or outdoor space to make this option happen—it’s perfect for apartment or condo residents!

1. Select perennial herbs

Whether you choose seeds to plant or starter herbs that have already sprouted, it all comes down to the types of herbs your select. Hearty herbs that grow year after year include chives, marjoram, mint, oregano, rosemary, sage, tarragon and thyme. Depending on the size of your windowsill herb garden, choose two to three herbs that you cook with most often. You can also dry herbs to make loose leaf tea!

2. Choose a container for your windowsill herb garden

Look for a sturdy design that can accommodate enough fertilizer and potting soil for all of your herbs. Alternatively, if you prefer to plant your herbs in individual pots, make sure your windowsill is able to fit all the herbs you selected and that the pots come with waterproof saucers to collect runoff. Regardless of the method you choose, incorporating drainage for either the planter box or the pots in which you plant the herbs in is key.

3. Cultivate your herb garden

First and foremost, fill your pots with fresh soil and fertilizer. If you’re starting with seeds, plant them an inch or two beneath the surface (check the seed packets for exact planting depth) and separate seed types a few inches apart. This will help you determine which herbs have sprouted. It’s best to lightly water your garden when the soil feels dry, typically once a day, and allow your herbs to sun themselves for a half-day.

4. Care for your herbs

A windowsill herb garden facing south is best for growing perennial herbs, but during the fall and winter you may need to use fluorescent light to increase sun exposure. Remember to drain the pot saucers of runoff from watering so your windowsills remain clean and damage-free. Typically, it’s best to fertilize about every two weeks with a light strength solution. Because your herbs can sprawl or overtake neighboring herbs if not cut back each year, the best way to care for them is through regular maintenance.

At Renewal by Andersen of Sacramento, we are continuously discovering ways to help incorporate your personal needs and style into your home replacement windows. From Halloween window decorations to increasing natural light in your home, we are here to guide you long after your window installation is complete. We’d love to hear from you once your herbs are growing, and we hope you enjoy the fruits of your labor!